The Best Homemade Chicken Casserole Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chicken casserole is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to throw together, even on busy weeknights.
- Creamy and cheesy, with tender chicken and veggies in every bite.
- Customizable—swap ingredients to match your family’s tastes.
- Leftovers taste even better, making it perfect for meal prep.
Recipe
This homemade chicken casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and packed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, frozen peas and carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the topping is golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- For added flavor, substitute cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option.
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6-8 servings
Nutrition
This chicken casserole recipe provides a hearty and nutritious meal. Below are the nutritional details per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my chicken casserole with simple side dishes that complement its rich flavors. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed veggies adds a fresh contrast to the meal. For something heartier, garlic bread or buttery mashed potatoes make it feel like a complete, comforting dinner.
Side Dish Ideas
Since a cozy chicken casserole deserves equally comforting sides, let’s talk about pairings that’ll round out your meal perfectly. When I’m short on time, I go for quick sides like a fresh green salad or garlic bread—they’re simple but always hit the spot. If I’m leaning toward healthy options, steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans are my go-to. They add a pop of color and keep things light. Sometimes, I’ll toss a few roasted sweet potato wedges in the oven because they’re hearty and just sweet enough to balance the savory casserole. These sides always make the meal feel complete.
Perfect Pairings
A great chicken casserole shines even brighter when paired with the right sides, and there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from. I love serving it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a fresh contrast. If you’re feeling fancy, try experimenting with cheese variations, like swapping cheddar for Gouda or adding a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. For wine recommendations, a light Chardonnay or Pinot Noir complements the flavors perfectly. And don’t forget crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes—they’re perfect for soaking up every bite. These pairings make the meal feel complete and extra special.
